Raising the Bar: Chicago's Best Rooftops for Summer Fun

Updated June 19, 2017

Having a cold beverage on a rooftop bar is a summer rite of passage in Chicago. You’ve likely caught a Cubs game or concert at one of the Wrigley rooftops and sipped your fair share of rooftop bevvs. Here at Bevver we like to pair drinks with activities, so we've put together a shortlist of rooftops that offer both drinks and entertainment.

Play Rooftop Games

Above the bar and concert venue at Reggie’s Live is the ‘Trainwreck Roof Deck,’ complete with a basketball hoop, pool table, bags boards, and 8 flat screen TVs to catch the game. Oh and if you get sweaty, you can wash off in their outdoor shower…encouraging Chicago to keep it clean out there.

Streeterville Social is a seasonal rooftop lounge atop the Loews Hotel. Games include Giant Jenga, cornhole, and pétanque, the French rendition of bocce ball. If you’re tired you can grab a cocktail and relax in a swinging chair.

Go Shopping with a View

Grocery shopping is less of a chore when beer and brats are involved. Gene’s Sausage and Deli in Lincoln Square is a grocery store, sausage deli and sandwich shop with a seasonal rooftop Biergarten.

Photo: Meetup.com

Trunk Club’s Chicago Clubhouse is like a secret club for Chicago’s most stylish men and women. However, Trunk Club’s clientele hasn't always lived the dream of coat tails and cocktails. Many Trunk Club clients might be described as old fashioned, and not in a cocktail sense. This shopping destination is ideal for the fashion-challenged to become fashion-forward - the complimentary drinks and city views aren't a bad perk either.

Listen to Live Music

Tanta in River North is serving up more than great food and piscos this summer. Listen to live music on Wednesday nights May through October on their inviting rooftop deck.

Bring the Dog

Every Wednesday night during warm months Joe’s on Weed has doggy happy hour on their rooftop (pup parents are also encouraged to attend). Table reservations are an option by contacting events@joesbar.com or 312.337.3486.

Practice Wellness

On June 29th, join your fellow yogis at Yoga Under the Lights at Navy Pier, presented by VibeUp. Shop at the Mindful Market starting at 5pm and choose from two yoga classes. The event takes place at the Navy Pier Rooftop Terrace, which has panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. This is a unique opportunity to do yoga under fireworks and be social - drink sponsors include High Brew Coffee and TyKu Sake.